Marching band for Mackey Street

On Saturday, December 10, Mackey Street will “come alive” with the sizzling smell of steak and the amazing sounds of the popular Bahamas Youth Alive Marching Band.

Up to 100 members of this dynamic group of talented young Bahamians will throw a live performance outside Nassau Hotel and Restaurant Supplies at #116 Mackey Street, under the direction of none other than Dustin Babbs, former leader of the world renowned Royal Bahamas Police Force Band.

What’s the occasion?

A steak-out to raise funds for this most worthy cause.

This is a major fund raiser for Bahamas Youth Alive, an outstanding youth program formed under Children’s Mission Outreach.

The band has grown from a handful of children in the Kemp Road area into one of the hottest acts in Nassau. With 65 active members and a full complement of 132, Youth Alive members are spread throughout the island.

The group is well-known locally – they just performed at the tree lighting ceremony on Bay Street – and last year, they were invited to perform at the White House.

But it all costs money.

So from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, a team of volunteers will be grilling steaks and offering full dinners for $10 to help raise funds to purchase musical instruments and uniforms for the young performers.

The highlight of the day will take place around 2 p.m. at Nassau Hotel and Restaurant Supplies when members of the marching band put on a full performance to thank the public for supporting them.

The band promises to thrill their audience with Junkanoo, Bahamian music and contemporary gospel.

The event is a team effort between Nassau Hotel and Restaurant Supplies, Children’s Mission Outreach and volunteers from the wider community.

Children’s Mission Outreach was formed in March, 1994, by its president, Rev. Ruby Saunders. Its mission is to help the needy with special emphasis on youth development.

Organizers are urging the public to come out in support, so they can hear and see the bright future of the country.